Nigerian-born Uzoma Asagwara elected into Canadian parliament

Nigerian-born Uzoma Asagwara has been elected as a lawmaker into the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in Canada.

Mrs Asagwara, a psychiatric nurse and community activist, was announced as the winner of Manitoba’s Union Station riding on Tuesday, making her the first Black, queer woman in the legislature, CTV reports.

She is also one of three Black people to have been elected into the 150-year parliament.

Speaking on her victory, Mrs Asagwara said, “This is a historic moment for our team and our communities.”

Mrs Asagwara said that being one of the first Black Member of the Legislative Assembly elected in Manitoba was “wonderful…incredible,” and a “sign that folks are really making sure that our elected officials reflect the communities they serve.”

Kicking off her campaign in August, Mrs Asagwara who played for the Canadian National Basketball team tweeted on her official handle: “The election has officially been called and September 10 is only a few weeks away!

“I’m running to make sure Union Station is represented by a progressive and compassionate MLA with deep roots in our community.”